Sony A450 DSLR Review | 108 Data compared

The Sony Alpha 450 is an entry-level digital SLR camera evaluated by Computer Bild as a "good" (test score 2.0) option for beginners, though it does not significantly distance itself from comparably priced competitors. Built around a highly light-sensitive Exmor sensor, the camera maintains minimal image noise up to ISO 800, though substantial grain and noise emerge when pushed to its maximum ISO 12800 setting. The camera features an integrated sensor-shift image stabiliser to counteract camera shake and offers high backwards compatibility by accepting older Konica-Minolta lenses alongside Sony's native lineup. Furthermore, it supports an automated in-camera HDR feature that quickly captures and merges two distinct exposures without needing external computer processing, which performs well even without a tripod due to a rapid continuous shooting mode.

The Sony Alpha 450 is an entry-level DSLR that shares identical image quality traits with its higher-end siblings, the Alpha 500 and 550, thanks to its 14-megapixel "Exmor" APS-C CMOS sensor. Key pros highlighted in the review include its excellent dynamic range—reaching up to 10 stops at ISO 100—and superior low-light image performance over older CCD-sensor variants. Additionally, it features a built-in mechanical image stabiliser that works across all attached lenses, advanced in-camera Auto HDR and D-Range Optimiser modes, and clever automated conveniences like Eye-Start AF.

The digitalkamera.de review highlights the Sony Alpha 450 as a budget-friendly 14.2-megapixel DSLR with excellent image quality, low-light performance, and a fast 7-frame-per-second burst mode. It features built-in sensor-shift image stabilization and robust, user-friendly ergonomics aimed at traditional photographers. However, the camera lacks video recording and offers only a limited "Manual-Check-LiveView" on the rear screen, omitting standard, autofocus-capable live view. Additionally, while performance is high, the 18-55mm kit lens is prone to flare in backlit conditions.

The CHIP review evaluates the Sony Alpha 450, a 14-megapixel DSLR positioned as a mid-range amateur model between the 3-series and 5-series lineups. The camera stands out for its excellent image quality and low-light performance, utilizing a CMOS sensor that matches the more expensive Alpha 550 and achieves up to ISO 12,800. Key advantages include integrated body-based image stabilisation, a reliable 9-point phase-detection autofocus system, and a highly precise 7x or 14x focus magnifying loupe for manual adjustments. Additionally, it offers a remarkably fast burst shooting rate of 4.9 frames per second, which allows for unlimited sequential JPEGs. However, the lower price tag compared to the A550 introduces several cost-cutting disadvantages. The Alpha 450's 2.7-inch rear display suffers from a low resolution of 230,400 RGB pixels and completely lacks the tilt-and-swivel flexibility found on its sister models. It is also stripped of Sony's "Quick AF" secondary sensor for fast live-view focusing, and it has no video recording capabilities whatsoever. While it offers performance close to the A550 at a lower price point, alternatives like the Nikon D5000 are noted for...

The Heise review identifies the Sony Alpha 450 as a cost-effective, high-performance DSLR featuring a 14.2-megapixel sensor and a fast 7 fps burst rate, making it a compelling, budget-friendly option. Key advantages include its lightweight build, effective sensor-shift stabilization, and a battery capable of exceeding 1,000 shots. However, to meet a lower price point, the camera lacks video recording, utilizes a smaller, fixed screen, and offers only a rudimentary Live View mode. The review concludes it is a specialized tool for traditional photographers prioritizing still image quality over modern video features.

The ⁠NETZWELT review highlights the Sony Alpha 450 as a budget-friendly digital single-lens reflex (DSLR) camera built strictly for photography enthusiast needs. On the positive side, its defining feature is the 14.2-megapixel Exmor CMOS image sensor which delivers very good image quality with crisp sharpness and bright colors. It stands out as an exceptionally fast shooter for its class, capable of capturing continuous bursts up to 7 frames per second in speed-priority mode. Usability is enhanced by an integrated optical image stabilizer built directly into the camera body, an easy-to-navigate layout of top-mounted controls, a clear 2.7-inch display screen, and dual storage compatibility with slots for both Memory Stick and SD memory cards.

The Digitalkamera.de lab test of the Sony Alpha 450 with the 18-55mm kit lens highlights excellent operation speed, with autofocus and shot times under 0.4 seconds, along with high resolution capabilities from its 14.2-megapixel sensor. While the camera body is fast, the 18-55mm lens shows significant weaknesses, including a 2.8% barrel distortion at 18mm and high vulnerability to lens flare.